Tinea versicolor is a mild skin fungus that is characterized by a rash on the trunk, abdomen and proximal extremities. This condition is caused by the fungi Malessezia globosa, Malassezia furfur, or Pityrosporum ovale. Tinea versicolor is observed in both men and women. It usually affects young adults. Tinea versicolor is especially fond of skin areas tha present a large amount of sebaceous glands.
Tinea versicolor manifests itself by small scaly lesions that appear on the trunk. Small patches of a lighter or darker colour than that of the skin can multiply on the chest and back. These spots are due to the proliferation of fungi and peel off easily. If left untreated, the spots caused by tinea versicolor can spread themselves out and form larger spots. Moreover, they can extend to different parts of the body, including thighs and arms. The factors that are conducive to this disease include a hormonal imbalance, a genetic predisposition, and a combination of heat and humidity.
The treatment of tinea versicolor is based on the application of antifungal products, such as ketoconazole-based shampoo. This shampoo must be used in combination with granules of Arsenicum Iodatum and Arsenicum Album 5 CH, in addition to a granule of Sepia officinalis 7 CH, all of which must be taken in the morning and evening. Moreover, taking these remedies may be combined to the application of Melaleuca alternifolia-based essential oil on the affected areas. Sulphur complex Lehning #12 is available in pharmacies and is very effective against tinea versicolor. The pack includes doses of Arsenicum Album 4 DH and Sulfur 3 DH, to be taken twice daily.
Two frictions per day with imidazole-based lotion or shampoo are recommended from the earliest outbreaks of tinea versicolor, and should be performed for a duration of 3 weeks. For a full scalp and body treatment, a single-dose Ketoderm gel treatment carried out on a weekly basis is appropriate. The use of Selenium sulfide is also a suitable alternative in the treatment of pityriasis versicolor. It is recommended to resort to three weekly treatments over a 3-week period. In case of relapse, the treatment will need to be applied once or twice a week over the course of several months. It is also best to avoid sun exposure during treatment of tinea versicolor. At the end of treatment, white spots tend to replace the marks left by pityriasis versicolor on the skin.
If the symptoms do not subside after treatment of the first eruptions and if the spots reappear, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. The physician may supplement the homoeopathic treatment with Fluconazole during two weeks, ketoconazole during 10 days and Triflucan.
Good to know: Pityriasis versicolor is a skin condition that mainly affects the trunk. Homoeopathic remedies, including antifungal products, can be used to treat this condition.
